Paul Andrews: The best news ever

Thursday

Oct 4, 2012 at 7:15 AM

This Sunday, many across the nation will go to church. They will leave feeling like they just don't quite measure up.

Romans 8: 1-5

No condemnation. None. This Sunday, many across the nation will go to church. They will leave feeling like they just don't quite measure up. Maybe some will feel relieved that they "made it" to church that Sunday, as if they have appeased, somewhat, a God who if not angry with them, just sort of tolerates them because they fall so far short of his expectations. For those who did not make it to church, they may sit home trying not to think of the God they so often fail. For some reason, they have trouble reading the bible or praying. It is tough to have to come to and face a God that knows your shortcomings with such detail; a God you cannot fool. It's hard to face him when you know he has so many things he can hold against you.

Many christians live like Jesus never died and rose again. They live under the old covenant, which was designed to show us we could not attain right standing with God by our own goodness.

They do not know the power of the cross.

They do not know that in the New Testament, their sins were dealt with "once and for all."

They like the thought of no condemnation, but do not know how to embrace it for their lives.

When Jesus forgave your sins, he gave you the ability to come to him even while you are in a sinning state.

You can have a relationship with Christ while you are battling an addiction you are not proud of. You see, God is an ever present help in time of need.

The abuser can still come to Jesus and be freed.

The adulterer can come to Jesus and be purified.

They do not have to quit their sin first. Else, they could not get to the help they need, which is the presence of God. It is his presence which can break sin off our lives.

Today, know that you are not condemned. Ever. If you have received Christ, you can come. He can help. I don't care how bad you are. The cross is bigger than your sin. You cannot outsin the cross. It is arrogant to think so. This radical love of God, radical grace, will radically change your life. Believe it, and come as you are.

Paul Andrews is the pastor of Life Church, Augusta. He can be contacted at: info@lifechurchoftheplains.com